Dale Eugene Appell

Dale Eugene Appell, age 71, of Charlotte Courthouse, VA (formerly Charles Town, WV), went to our Lord on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Inova Hospital in Falls Church, VA. Dale was born on October 19, 1953, in Charles Town, WV, the son of the late Mifflin and Lillian Appell of Harpers Ferry, WV.
Dale is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Milton Ballenger Appell, at home; his cherished daughter, Tina Rumer (Derrick) of Charles Town; stepson John Lee Ballenger (Erin Nail) of Charlotte Courthouse, VA; stepdaughter Tara Ballenger (Brock Bell) of Charles Town, WV; two brothers, Jim Appell (Chris) of Leesburg, VA, and Robert Appell of Charles Town, WV; and grandchildren Madison and Hayden Rumer of Charles Town,WV, Kyle Ballenger (Lauren) of Ranson,WV, Emma Ballenger (Dominic Cox) of Winchester, VA, Oscar Lee Ballenger "Ossie" and bonus granddaughter, Saylor Bell, and two step-grandchildren, Landon and Macey Ballenger. Dale was lucky to have a brother in law, John Milton (CJ) of Martinsburg, WV and sister in law, Rhonda Mason (Jayne) of Harper Ferry, WV. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as close friends whom he held dear to his heart.
Dale was totally loved by every member of his blended family. He had a special talent for bringing people together and making everyone feel valued and appreciated.
A 1971 graduate of Charles Town High School, Dale dedicated 36 years of his life to serving his country with the Central Intelligence Agency. After retiring from the CIA, he continued his career with Leidos, ultimately completing a remarkable 48 years of government service. Dale was a true patriot who deeply loved his country and his home state of West Virginia, where he found joy in the great outdoors and cheering for his beloved Mountaineers.
Dale had a great passion for hunting, especially deer and turkey. He treasured the time spent with his hunting buddies and fellow hunting club members. His home was a gathering place for friends, where he delighted in cooking delicious meals of barbecue and seafood boils. Dale held a special place in his heart for his family and his beloved Corgis, Wallee, Kallee, and Barlee.
Dale loved sitting around reminiscing about the good old days, sharing stories and laughter with those he loved. He had a deep love of music and could relate many aspects of life to a song lyric, finding joy and meaning in the melodies and words.
Six years ago, Dale's dear friend Doug Hart, whom Dale lovingly referred to as his brother from another mother, made an extraordinary gesture of love and friendship by donating a kidney to him. This selfless act allowed Dale to enjoy six more precious years on this wonderful earth. Doug's generosity gave Dale the gift of time, enabling him to continue creating cherished memories with his family and friends. Dale's gratitude for Doug's kindness was immeasurable, and he often spoke of how this act of compassion profoundly impacted his life. Dale's heart was filled with appreciation for the gift of life he received, and he lived those additional years with a renewed sense of joy and purpose.
Dale Eugene Appell will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and patriotism will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His memory will forever be cherished, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at Asbury United Methodist Church, 110 W. North Street, Charles Town, WV with Pastor Bill Ball officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral.